Barium enema Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, July 2009.
Answers to questions about barium enema
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Is it safe to have barium inside my bowel?
- Who interprets my barium enema results?
- Aren't barium enemas old-fashioned?
Is it safe to have barium inside my bowel?
Yes, it's generally safe to have barium inside your bowel but it may produce a few side-effects.
Explanation
Barium is a white liquid that shows up on X-ray images. It's safe for you to have barium inside your stomach or bowels, but it may cause you to have mild constipation and you may notice that it has turned your faeces white. This should only last for a day or so and your faeces will return to usual once the barium has passed through. Contact your GP if these side-effects continue for more than two days. He or she may give you a laxative to help your bowel get rid of the barium more quickly.
Further information
- Cancer Research UK
www.cancerresearchuk.org
Sources
- Barium X-ray. Cancer Research UK. www.cancerhelp.org.uk, accessed 19 January 2009
- Lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract X-ray (radiography). RadiologyInfo. www.radiologyinfo.org, accessed 19 January 2009
Who interprets my barium enema results?
The pictures produced during your barium enema will be examined by a radiologist, a doctor who specialises in using imaging methods to diagnose medical conditions.
Explanation
The radiologist will write a report based on the images that were recorded during your barium enema. Most hospitals in the UK now use digital equipment to do this, which means the images are stored on computer rather than film. If you have been sent for a barium enema by your GP, he or she will receive the report.
The amount of time it takes for your results to come through to your referring doctor will depend on why you're having the test. It's usual for you to feel anxious about your results. If your results are urgent, your GP will ensure that he or she makes a note on the scan request form and your results will arrive sooner. You can ask your GP when he or she expects your results to be ready.
Further information
- Cancer Research UK
www.cancerresearchuk.org
Sources
- Barium X-ray. Cancer Research UK. www.cancerhelp.org.uk, accessed 19 January 2009
Aren't barium enemas old-fashioned?
A barium enema can still be a useful test, particularly in screening for bowel cancer. It has a proven safety record and is inexpensive for local hospitals to provide. However, other tests, particularly colonoscopy and CT scans are now often used instead and have been shown to be less unpleasant.
Explanation
For many years a barium enema was the best test for looking at the lining of the large bowel. Local hospitals usually have the staff and equipment to offer the test, with radiographers who are skilled in performing the test and radiologists (doctors who specialise in using imaging methods to diagnose medical conditions). A CT scan or a colonoscopy may not be so readily available, or may be unsuitable for you. Your GP can explain the pros and cons of the different types of test.
Sources
- Taylor S, Halligan S, Saunders P, et al. Acceptance by patients of multidetector CT colonography compared with barium enema examinations, flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. Am J Roentgenol 2003; 181(4): 913-21
- Ferrucci J. Double-contrast barium enema: use in practice and implications for CT colonography. Am J Roentgenol 2006; 187(1):170-73
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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: July 2009
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